Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)

An Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) is an evaluation conducted by a qualified evaluator who is not employed by the student's school district, as distinct from an evaluation conducted by the district itself. In the context of assistive technology, an AT-focused IEE looks at how a student accesses and participates in learning, using the same general areas considered in a school-based AT evaluation.

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), families may, in certain circumstances and subject to specific procedures, have the right to request an IEE. Whether that right applies, and how it works, depends on the situation and on applicable federal and state rules and district procedures. This is general educational information, not a statement about any individual's rights.

Eligibility for an IEE, and how it may be arranged or paid for, varies by circumstance, jurisdiction, and district policy. Some families pursue an independent AT evaluation privately, while others may pursue one through district procedures. This page does not describe any specific district's policy and does not guarantee that any particular funding arrangement applies.

An AT-focused independent educational evaluation may look at areas such as educational access, curriculum access, communication, alternative access methods, computer and device access, accessible educational materials, and the classroom environment, among other factors relevant to a student's participation in learning.

The process may involve gathering background information, observing the student in relevant settings, trying different tools or strategies, and discussing needs with the student, family, and school team where appropriate. The specific steps can vary depending on the student and the questions being asked.

An independent AT evaluation may result in written documentation describing the areas considered, the options explored, and recommendations intended to inform planning and decision-making. Any recommendations are intended to support, not replace, the school team's own decision-making process.

For students whose access needs include communication, an AT-focused IEE may also consider augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs and access methods, since communication and access are often closely connected. See AAC Evaluations for more on this area.

Service Delivery Options

Independent educational evaluations involving assistive technology may be provided remotely, in person, or through a hybrid model depending on the evaluation needs and circumstances. Remote evaluation services may be available nationwide. In-person and hybrid evaluations requiring travel are available by custom quote, including evaluations requested by schools or school districts.

This page provides general educational information and does not provide legal advice. It does not guarantee eligibility, funding, timelines, or outcomes, and it does not describe the policies of any specific school district. Families with questions about their specific rights or circumstances should consult their school district's procedures, their state's guidance, or qualified assistance such as a parent advocacy or legal resource.

To discuss an AT-focused independent educational evaluation for a specific student, see Request an Evaluation.

Schools and school districts seeking an in-person or hybrid independent evaluation that requires travel may request a custom quote.

Providing independent evaluation expertise and educational information to individuals, families, schools, and districts is part of Accessibility Clinic ® Inc.'s broader nonprofit accessibility and education mission.